Dealing with Sewer Smells from Your Toilet

This is Common in Rarely-Used Toilets

One of the most common culprits behind that smell is a dry or empty toilet trap. Also known as the P-trap, this curved pipe under the toilet holds water and acts as a barrier to keep sewer gases from coming back up into your bathroom. If your toilet hasn’t been used in a while, such as in a guest bathroom, then those foul smells have a clear path back into the room.

Simply flush the toilet a couple of times to refill the trap and restore the natural seal. If the smell is still pungent, then there's probably a plumbing problem to address.

Worn Out Wax Rings Do What?

The wax ring seals the base of the toilet to the drainpipe. Over time and through movement, this wax ring can shift, become brittle, and deteriorate. When that seal is broken, sewer gases can escape from underneath the toilet.

Many homeowners try to take on a wax ring replacement as a DIY project, but this is NOT a beginner's task. Still, it must be fixed as soon as possible. Continuing to flush a toilet with a worn out wax ring could worsen the problem or cause sewage leaks!

Plumbing Systems Use Vents! How Are Yours?

Plumbing vent pipes help regulate air pressure and safely direct sewer gases out through the roof. If the vent becomes clogged by leaves and debris, or if it’s been damaged, then those gases can’t escape. Oftentimes, they reroute through your toilet or drains.

If you’ve ruled out water traps and the wax seal but still experiencing strong sewage smells, then the vents might be the culprit. But where do you even start? Don't. Vents are regulated by building codes, and they're a pain to work with. Instead, hire a licensed plumber who is familiar with plumbing systems, standards, and regulations.

Maybe the Issue is Even Deeper

Toilets are simply fixtures that help facilitate the disposal of human waste. After the flush - and every shower, dishwashing, and laundry rinse - the waste and wastewater travels down the drain line installation, through the sewer line, and to the septic tank or public sewer system.

If you're experiencing this issue in multiple rooms, or even outdoors as well as indoors, then it's time to have a plumber investigate. Sewage leaks, for instance, can contaminate underground water reserves, expose you to health hazards, and worse.

The plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing employ diagnostics tools like micro camera technology to pinpoint and evaluate the severity of the plumbing. Whether it’s a partial blockage, root intrusion, or pipe collapse, you can rest assured knowing our plumbers are trained and equipped to handle a wide range of plumbing repair service.

Why Property Owners Choose Mr. Rooter's Professionals

Mr. Rooter Plumbing is not your run-of-the-mill plumbing company. We are a licensed, insured, and reputable business with a commitment to the long-game. Whether you need a toilet replacement or a sewer line fixed, the trained plumbers at Mr. Rooter will get to the root of the problem and deliver a long-lasting solution.

There are no guessing games when you choose Mr. Rooter. With decades of industry experience under our belts, we know what it takes to get the job done - that means we know what it will cost you. We're proud to offer upfront price quotes.

Still have questions or concerns? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to speak with a member of our team.